The history of eating in America is the history of America. It is the story of labor, of agriculture, of technology, of innovation. It is also the story of race and class and social status, of immigration and adaptation. As the country shifts with the passage of time, you can see it on our menus. On a more personal level, food is a time travel machine to our memories—and, for many, the way into our soul—whether it’s the regional specialties that remind you of where you came from, the pot roast that’s exactly like the one your mother used to make, or tastes and smells that connect you with ancestors you’ve never met, eating the most ordinary things can transport you. This is the story of food in America. You’ll never eat anything the same way again.
WHAT WE EAT REMINDS US OF WHO WE WERE • Food is nourishment, nostalgia—and so much more
The Most Important Meal… BREAK FAST!
WHAT A WAY TO START THE DAY • The American morning meal has changed dramatically over time
AMERICAN FOOD PIONEER Dr. John Kellogg
OUR FAVORITE PLACES: Diners
Let’s Do LUNCH!
CHOICES GALORE! • It could be argued that lunch is really America’s most important—and diverse—meal
AMERICAN FOOD PIONEER Oscar F. Mayer
OUR FAVORITE PLACES: McDonald’s
DINNER Time!
A MEAL TO REMEMBER • For many, what’s for dinner is the eating event of the day—especially on special occasions
AMERICAN FOOD PIONEER Julia Child
OUR FAVORITE PLACES: Chinese Carryouts
Feeling Peckish? Grab a SNACK!
JUST A LITTLE SOMETHING • Quick, easy… and often the meal we don’t count
AMERICAN FOOD PIONEER Rebecca Webb Carranza
OUR FAVORITE PLACES: Vending Machines
DESSERT! Delicious!
GO AHEAD, YOU DESERVE IT • What meal is complete without something sweet?
AMERICAN FOOD PIONEER Wally Amos
OUR FAVORITE PLACES: Ice Cream Parlors
America’s Favorite Foods
PHOTO CREDITS